Palma, Robert J.

2018-05-22T12:46:44Z

2018-05-22T12:46:44Z

1970

The immediate purpose in this thesis is to examine Grosseteste's doctrine of truth. This study of Grosseteste's conception of truth does not arise out of sheer historical curiosity concerning certain medieval phenomena, viz, certain notions entertained by certain medieval thinkers concerning the nature of truth. Although an attempt will be made to offer an exposition of Grosseteste's and certain other doctrines of truth it should be pointed out that this writer is interested in more than a sheer phenomenological and analytical examination of these doctrines. The purpose of this thesis extends beyond an attempt to ascertain the ways in which 'Veritas', 'verum'. and related words are used by Grosseteste, St. Anselm, St. Augustine, and others. This writer believes that we still have much to learn from the conceptions of truth held by such as Robert Grosseteste and St. Anselm. The intention in the first chapter is in part to discuss briefly particular problematical developments in certain modern and more recent correspondence and coherence notions of truth. It is believed that certain of these developments have arisen in part because of forgotten or rejected emphases and motifs present in the medieval conceptions of truth to be considered. For this reason it is also believed that we would do well to recall and retrieve some of these emphases and motifs which were key components of these medieval doctrines of truth. However, as will become apparent, there are facets of the doctrines to be discussed which are themselves problematical in character and which must be brought into view. Some of these problematical facets are also noted and discussed. Reasons for incorporating a brief discussion of M. Heidegger's thought concerning truth are brought together at the end of the first chapter. A brief explanatory note is in order with respect to the use of single and double quotation marks. Single quotation marks, except in such cases as where we have a quotation within a quotation, are generally used to indicate that the word or expression itself is being discussed and considered. Single quotation marks are also used on occasion to indicate that the sense or meaning of the words enclosed by the marks is rather ambiguous and indeterminate. Single quotation marks may indicate that the word or words involve a problematical sense or reference. The manner in which single quotation marks are being used in a given instance is usually indicated by the context in which they appear. Double quotation marks are used to indicate that the words enclosed constitute a citation from an author or thinker discussed. Here and there one will find single words and phrases enclosed in double quotation marks. This is done for the purpose of showing that the words and expressions so designated are not mine. In certain instances where double quotation marks are used it may also be that the enclosed word or words are themselves being considered and discussed. Again, the context should help to make this clear. The chapters are divided in accordance with the context and material being discussed. The amount of space and discussion given to a specific topic or theme often indicates the significance of the material itself and its place within the whole of the thesis. On the basis of the divisions found within a particular chapter it is possible to make reference to a specific section. Reference to specific sections are to be found especially in the final chapter.

http://hdl.handle.net/1842/30616

The University of Edinburgh

Annexe Thesis Digitisation Project 2018 Block 19

Understanding of truth in the thought of Robert Grosseteste

The understanding of truth in the thought of Robert Grosseteste

Thesis or Dissertation

Doctoral

PhD Doctor of Philosophy